When you have hyperemesis gravidarum, it’s easy to feel that you’re a victim, that you’re being bullied by a disease that knocks you down every minute. Hg hits you with nausea, fakes you out with fatigue, gives you the one-two with vomiting, and drives you to tears with the sharp and cruel jabs by phlebotomists who are convinced that they can find a vein in your dehydrated arms. Knowing that there is nothing you can do to feel better, that you were thrown in the ring against your will with this strong foe can often make you feel helpless.

But there is hope. Even though you’re feeling like you’re literally dying, you don’t have to feel like a victim. My suggestion? Choose to be a survivor. Know that you’re going to struggle, and you will often be miserable, but you will endure. And when you do, you will have the most wonderful reward anyone has ever received: a beautiful and healthy child.